President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Advocate Andrew Chauke, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for South Gauteng, with immediate effect, pending a formal inquiry into his fitness to hold office. The announcement was made late Monday, 21 July 2025, following mounting concerns about Chauke’s leadership and decision-making within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
The Suspension Decision of Andrew Chauke
According to the Presidency, the decision was taken under Section 14(3) read with 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act. Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed that President Ramaphosa had previously asked Advocate Chauke to provide reasons why he should not be suspended. After considering Chauke’s response, the President concluded that suspension was “the correct course of action.”
“President Ramaphosa has informed Advocate Chauke of his decision in writing and indicated that the President and the public would benefit from an independent assessment of issues that require elucidation and on which there are disputes of fact,” said Magwenya.
Concerns Over Chauke’s Tenure
The Presidency highlighted two major concerns:
- Public Confidence: Ramaphosa believes that Chauke’s continued presence as DPP would damage the NPA’s reputation.
- Operational Integrity: With serious accusations looming, the President doubts whether Chauke can continue to fulfil his functions effectively while under scrutiny.
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Background: The Accusations
Reports suggest that NPA National Director Shamila Batohi was instrumental in escalating the matter. Sunday World previously reported that Batohi had asked Chauke to explain several prosecutorial decisions that raised red flags.
Among the controversial decisions:
- Duduzane Zuma Case: Chauke allegedly showed reluctance to prosecute former President Jacob Zuma’s son for culpable homicide. This followed a 2014 crash in which Duduzane lost control of his Porsche, resulting in the death of a Zimbabwean woman and injuries to three others. A magistrate found prima facie evidence of negligence, but Duduzane was acquitted in 2019.
- Richard Mdluli Case: Chauke was also reportedly questioned for not pursuing murder charges against former Crime Intelligence boss Richard Mdluli related to the 1999 killing of Oupa Ramogibe. While Mdluli was eventually cleared of that murder, he was later convicted on unrelated charges of assault and kidnapping.
Batohi reportedly informed Chauke that she would write to the President following his explanations — a process that has now culminated in the current suspension.
What’s Next?
The suspension paves the way for an independent inquiry into Chauke’s conduct and whether his actions have compromised the credibility of the prosecuting authority. No timeline has yet been provided for the inquiry’s conclusion.
This move marks a significant assertion of executive oversight over the prosecutorial branch and signals Ramaphosa’s intent to maintain integrity within key state institutions.
Final Word
As the legal and political ramifications of Chauke’s suspension unfold, South Africans await clarity on the NPA’s next steps and whether more heads could roll in the name of accountability and justice.
Also read: Ramaphosa Suspends Police Minister Senzo Mchunu Over Criminal Allegations
